Substance use disorder is a mental health condition in which the sufferer has a physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol. This causes significant distress on one’s health, happiness, and relationships with friends and family. Unfortunately, one of the populations that are most susceptible to this painful condition is United States veterans. More specifically,…
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Coming home after years in the military is a time of drastic change and adjustment for most military veterans. One day, you’re on top of the world, you know your place, and you have a mission. The next moment, you’re placed in the civilian world and you expect yourself to know where to go and…
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For decades, researchers have tried to identify the primary reasons someone becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol. Despite varying theories that have evolved over the years, five primary factors contribute to someone becoming addicted to drugs and alcohol. These factors include genetic components, environmental factors, chronic stress, trauma & adverse childhood experiences, and mental health.…
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Individuals diagnosed with a substance use disorder1 can experience many associated symptoms or symptoms of co-occurring disorders. It’s essential to recognize that co-occurring disorders are common in these individuals and sometimes complicate their diagnosis. Often, substance use disorder and mental illness2 go hand in hand. Specialists can diagnose each disorder separately, but a person can…
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There is a key difference between socially drinking and depending on alcohol to function. But how do you know if you have a hold on your drinking versus it having a hold of you? If you begin to experience withdrawal symptoms when you either lower the amount you drink or quit altogether, this is an…
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There is a strong correlation between people with personality disorders and addiction. One study found that 37.9% of individuals who struggle with addiction have also been diagnosed with a mental illness.1 Having both a substance use disorder and mental health disorder is called a dual diagnosis. This might include conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma PTSD,…
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When you are misusing substances or are struggling with addiction, you will suffer many physical body symptoms. One of the most important but little cared for is your nutrition. Healthy nutrition prioritization falls to the wayside as you spend time and money differently, and your entire body suffers the effects. That’s one of the reasons…
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These days, it seems like just about everyone has a cell phone in their hand. This assumption isn’t far from reality, as recent numbers released by the Pew Research Center show that nearly 85% of Americans [1] own a smartphone in 2021. This digital point of connection had been moving towards becoming an integral part…
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What happens to us during our childhood doesn’t disappear when we become an adult. Our developing brains form strong connections and memories during our youngest years. These connections go on to shape how we feel about ourselves for our entire lifetime. Many people come from a warm, supportive environment that makes them feel confident, secure,…
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For many social drinkers, sipping a preferred alcoholic beverage alongside friends or family isn’t an uncommon scene. While drinking has become a staple activity in many social settings, it’s important to note that every sip does affect the body both short and long term. When you begin to drink too much, there are physical and…
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